Fragrance Oils: Friend Or Foe For Bleached Hair?

Bleaching is a chemical process that removes pigment from hair, leaving it lighter in colour. However, it also strips the hair of its natural oils and proteins, resulting in dry, brittle hair that is prone to breakage. To combat these negative effects, people often turn to hair oils, such as argan oil, coconut oil, and castor oil, to restore moisture, strength, and shine. But do these fragrance oils affect bleached hair? This is an important question as you don't want to make the problem worse.

Castor oil can help to moisturise bleached hair

Bleach can be very damaging to hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and susceptible to breakage. The hair is left weaker and thinner, and the cuticle is damaged, leading to rapid moisture loss.

Castor oil is a safe, natural, and cost-effective way to treat bleached hair. It is rich in ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid that can penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than many other hair oils. Ricinoleic acid is a small molecule that can enter through the hair cuticle (the outer layer of the hair) and add moisture to the cortex (the inner layer of the hair shaft). This helps to combat the moisture loss caused by bleaching.

Castor oil also contains vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, which can stimulate protein synthesis in hair follicles, leading to stronger new hair growth. The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil can soothe an irritated scalp, a common issue after bleaching. Its antimicrobial properties can also help combat fungal infections that may impede hair growth. Additionally, castor oil can help balance the scalp's pH and oil production.

To use castor oil on bleached hair, slightly warm the oil for better absorption, and blend it with rosemary oil to improve growth. Section your hair and apply the oil from roots to tips. Cover your hair with a shower cap or towel for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. Finally, rinse the oil out with a sulfate-free shampoo. For best results, leave the castor oil in your hair 1-2 times a week, massaging it into your scalp for at least 2 minutes to ensure full coverage.

While castor oil is a great natural treatment for bleached hair, it should be used with caution and in small amounts. Excessive or improper use can lead to hair felting.

Argan oil can prevent hair loss and split ends

Argan oil is an effective treatment for preventing hair loss and split ends. It is derived from the kernels of the argan tree, native to Morocco. It is rich in essential fatty acids, oleic acid, and linoleic acid, which are excellent at nourishing and moisturising hair. The high concentration of vitamin E in argan oil also provides powerful antioxidant properties, which can protect the hair from free radical damage.

Argan oil helps prevent hair loss and split ends by sealing the hair cuticle, preventing further damage, and minimising frizz. It adds moisture to the hair shaft, reducing the likelihood of breakage. The fatty acids in argan oil also help improve hair elasticity, making hair more resistant to damage and split ends.

A 2022 study found that argan oil improved the tensile strength of hair and preserved the colour of bleached hair. The vitamin E content in argan oil guards the hair strands from damage and promotes thicker hair. Argan oil is also effective against scalp infections and can help treat dandruff.

To use argan oil for preventing hair loss and split ends, start with clean hair. Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo to remove dirt and product buildup, ensuring that the argan oil can penetrate deeply. Towel-dry your hair and apply a few drops of pure argan oil to the ends of your hair and along the entire length of your hair if you experience dryness. Comb it through to distribute the oil evenly, ensuring every strand is covered. You can then either let your hair air dry or use heat tools as needed. For best results, use argan oil 2-3 times a week. If your hair is severely damaged, you can use it as a leave-in treatment overnight.

Coconut oil can help to replenish moisture

Coconut oil is a great natural solution for healthy hair. It is safe to use on all hair types and can be used to replenish moisture, relieve dandruff, restore shine to dry and damaged hair, tame frizz, and protect hair against styling damage.

Coconut oil is rich in nutrients, including monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, and plant sterols. It forms a protective shield on the hair strands, safeguarding them from heat and other environmental factors. It also helps prevent hair fall and breakage.

The unique chemical structure of coconut oil allows it to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively than other oils. This helps protect your hair from dryness and reduces friction-induced breakage. Additionally, coconut oil's antimicrobial, antifungal, and moisturising properties may help reduce dandruff.

Coconut oil is also beneficial for treating scalp conditions. A 2021 study found that topical applications of coconut oil to the scalp had antifungal benefits, combated scalp yeast infections, promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria, and reduced scalp flaking.

To use coconut oil to replenish moisture in bleached hair, you can apply it as a prewash treatment, conditioner, hair mask, or styling aid. When used as a prewash treatment, coconut oil can prevent hair from absorbing too much water, reducing damage and dryness. As a conditioner, coconut oil strengthens the hair shaft and prevents breakage. Adding a few drops to your regular conditioner can also enhance its effects.

For a deep conditioning treatment, you can use coconut oil as a hair mask. Massage a teaspoon or two of coconut oil through your hair and leave it on overnight or wash it out after a few hours. This will provide intense nourishment to your hair.

When using coconut oil to replenish moisture in bleached hair, it is important to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. For finer hair types, it is recommended to avoid applying coconut oil directly to the scalp to prevent greasiness. Instead, focus on the midsection to the ends of your hair.

Jojoba oil can prevent dandruff

While fragrance oils can affect bleached hair, jojoba oil is a great natural product for preventing dandruff and treating your scalp.

Jojoba oil is not a true oil but a wax ester, similar in structure and function to the sebum produced by our skin. It is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, which help reduce scalp inflammation. Its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties also help calm flakes and treat dandruff.

Jojoba oil works by forming a protective coating over each hair strand, helping to reduce frizz, lock in moisture, and make hair soft, shiny, and tangle-free. It is a lightweight sealant, preventing moisture loss by forming a protective film along the hair shaft. Its sebum-like properties mean it washes away cleanly and doesn't build up on your strands.

Jojoba oil can be used on all hair types but is especially beneficial for those with fine or thin hair. It is also great for curly hair as it helps combat frizz and dryness.

To use jojoba oil for dandruff, massage a handful into your scalp and rake it through your dry or slightly damp hair before bed. Cover with a shower cap and shampoo it out in the morning. You can also add a few drops to your conditioner to enhance its moisturising abilities.

For those with very thick hair, apply one or two drops of jojoba oil after shampooing and towel-drying. Start by massaging it into the ends of your hair and then work your way up towards the scalp. This will help eliminate frizz and calm static.

Jojoba oil is safe for the whole family and can even relieve cradle cap. It is non-toxic and has a reputation for safety, with instances of allergic reactions being rare. However, it is always good to do a patch test to ensure you are not sensitive to the oil.

Olive oil can be used on all types of bleached hair

Olive oil has been used for hair care for thousands of years, with some claiming that it adds shine, body, softness, and resilience to hair. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and E, which help protect the keratin in hair by locking in moisture. Olive oil's primary chemical elements are oleic acid, palmitic acid, and squalene, all of which are emollients with softening qualities.

Olive oil is most beneficial for dry and thick hair. It can keep hair moist and strong, but it tends to weigh down thinner hair. Heavily processed hair, such as hair that has been treated with bleach, can especially benefit from the extra moisture that olive oil provides.

When using olive oil on bleached hair, it is important to test a small strand first to ensure that the oil does not leave a trace of its green shade behind. Additionally, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours after bleaching before applying olive oil to the hair.

• Start with dry hair and use about a tablespoon or two of extra virgin olive oil for your first treatment.
• Massage the oil deeply into your hair, starting at the ends and working your way up. If you have a dry scalp, you can also massage it into your scalp.
• For deeper conditioning, cover your hair with a shower cap and let the oil soak in for 15 minutes or more.
• Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb before shampooing to make it easier to comb and style afterward.
• Shampoo rigorously and dry your hair. You may need to shampoo twice, depending on how much oil you have applied.
• For best results, use olive oil once a week or less often, especially if your hair is not dry enough to require daily moisturizing treatments.

Frequently asked questions